Protocol Item H.04

H.04 Plastic Transmission Pipeline

For plastic transmission pipelines, verify that applicable third party damage requirements have been applied to covered segments of the pipeline. [§192.935(e)]

Verify that the operator’s processes for damage prevention program enhancements include requirements for the use of qualified personnel (see Protocol L.02 - §192.915(c)) for work an operator is conducting that could adversely affect the integrity of a covered segment, such as marking, locating, and direct supervision of known excavation work. [§192.935(e)] [Note: This requirement is also contained in previous Protocol H.02.a.i for non-plastic pipelines operating above 30% SMYS.]

Verify that the operator's processes for damage prevention program enhancements include participating in one-call systems in locations where covered segments are present. [§192.935(e)] [Note: This requirement is also contained in Protocol H.02.a.iii for non-plastic pipelines operating above 30% SMYS.]

Verify that the excavations on covered segments are monitored by pipeline personnel. [§192.935(e)] [Note: This requirement is also contained in Protocol H.02.a.iv for non-plastic pipelines operating above 30% SMYS.]

When there is physical evidence of encroachment involving excavation that the operator did not monitor near a covered segment, verify that the area near the encroachment must be excavated or that an above ground survey using methods defined in NACE RP0502-2002 must be conducted. [§192.935(e)] [Note: This requirement is also contained in Protocol H.02.a.iv for non-plastic pipelines operating above 30% SMYS.]

If an above ground survey is conducted, verify that any indication of coating holidays or discontinuities warranting direct examination must be excavated and remediated in accordance with ASME B31.8S-2004, Section 7.5 and §192.933. [§192.935(e)] [Note: This requirement is also contained in Protocol H.02.a.iv for non-plastic pipelines operating above 30% SMYS.]